Sting, the wrestler, retired from in-ring competition due to a neck injury sustained in 2015. However, he has since made appearances in non-wrestling roles and joined All Elite Wrestling (AEW) in 2020.
Sting, whose real name is Steve Borden, is one of the most iconic figures in professional wrestling history, known for his time in World Championship Wrestling (WCW), Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). His career spanned over three decades, during which he became a multiple-time world champion and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2016.
In September 2015, during a match against Seth Rollins at WWE’s Night of Champions, Sting suffered a severe neck injury. The injury was a result of two “buckle bombs,” a move where the opponent is thrown into the turnbuckles with force. This led to cervical spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal canal and can cause extreme pain and discomfort. Due to the risks associated with this condition, Sting announced his retirement from in-ring competition during his Hall of Fame induction speech.
Despite his retirement, Sting remained involved in the wrestling industry. He made various appearances at WWE events and conventions, often engaging with fans and participating in interviews. In December 2020, Sting shocked the wrestling world by debuting in AEW. He signed a multi-year contract with the promotion and has been featured in a non-wrestling capacity, taking on a mentorship role and occasionally getting physically involved in storylines, though not in full wrestling matches to ensure his safety given his previous injury. His presence in AEW has been a significant draw for fans, adding to the promotion’s growing popularity and showcasing his enduring legacy in the sport.